Delve into the realm of Crassula perforata, commonly known as string of buttons, a succulent that thrives both indoors and outdoors. Allow Rachel Garcia to guide you through the process of nurturing this charming plant.
Aesthetically pleasing, Crassula perforata is an excellent choice for novice gardeners, showcasing a palette ranging from green to pink hues. Its distinctive chunky leaves spiral elegantly around the stem, embodying its moniker – string of buttons. This captivating succulent adds a touch of allure to any environment it graces.
String of buttons proves to be adaptable, flourishing in terrariums and rock gardens. Its sprawling nature makes it a perfect fit for ground cover and hanging baskets. When cultivated outdoors, it acts as a magnet for fluttering butterflies and hummingbirds.
As you contemplate nurturing Crassula perforata, familiarize yourself with this succulent that exudes charm like no other.
Insight
Type of Plant Succulent
Family Crassulaceae
Genus Crassula
Species Crassula perforata
Exposure Partial sun
Height 12′-24′
Watering Needs Low
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Succulent mix
Overview of String of Buttons
Crassula perforata, known as pagoda plant or necklace vine, grows rapidly, with stems clustering and creeping over other plants, sometimes even through neighboring bushes.
When mature, this plant surprises with small, star-shaped flowers in spring. Flowers can be yellow, white, or pink. Providing a slight night and day temperature difference can enhance blooming, along with a cold but above-freezing winter temperature.
Hailing from South Africa, Crassula perforata thrives in warm climates. Ideal for USDA Zones 9-11, it also makes an excellent houseplant in colder regions.
Crassula Perforata Varieties
The Crassula genus boasts around 200 species, with several sharing common names like string of buttons. Here are two common varieties of the perforata species.
Crassula perforata ‘Variegata’
The ‘Variegata’ variety of Crassula perforata showcases various colors ranging from green to yellow to pink, with some featuring rainbow-like edges or stripes.
Crassula perforata ssp. kougaensis
This subspecies displays typical features with vibrant reddish-pink edges surrounding leaves that are also adorned with pink or white dots.
Crassula perforata vs Crassula conjuncta
Crassula perforata is often mistaken for Crassula conjuncta due to slight leaf differences. These plants share similar care requirements, but for the purposes of this article, we will focus on the C. perforata species.
Planting
Commonly cultivated in containers, these compact plants thrive whether grown indoors or outdoors. This flexibility enables relocation to a sheltered area for those enduring colder weather conditions during winter. For individuals residing in USDA Zone 9 and above with warmer climates, direct outdoor planting is suitable.
It is advisable to select a sunny spot with well-drained soil for planting. In cases where the existing soil lacks adequate drainage, enrich it with compost and sand before planting to enhance both drainage and soil quality. When using containers, consider incorporating perlite and sand to standard potting mix or opt for a specialized succulent and cacti mix.
During planting, ensure it matches the original depth of the plant, as excessive depth can induce rot. To eliminate air pockets, gently press around the base and water post-planting to settle the roots. Caution is advised against overwatering during the initial growth phase to prevent root rot.
How to Grow
The string of buttons plant aligns with typical succulent care requirements, making it a breeze to nurture after an initial learning curve.
Light
String of buttons demands four to six hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive and showcase its full spectrum of colors.
To prevent shock from sudden lighting changes, acclimatize your Crassula perforata gradually whenever modification is necessary.
Water
Crassula perforata benefits from modest watering habits, as overhydration can cause softening and decay of the succulent, while underwatering may lead to drooping and leaf shrinkage.
Only water the plant when the soil has completely dried out, erring on the side of caution when in doubt, as succulents tolerate underwatering better than overwatering.
Soil
Optimal drainage is crucial for the well-being of Crassula perforata to prevent root rot that arises from excess water surrounding the roots.
You can utilize commercially available cactus and succulent soil that promotes good drainage, or blend perlite and sand into standard potting mix. Regularly inspect the soil for drainage efficiency, and introduce more sand if water retention is excessive.
While these plants are not overly particular about soil pH levels, they thrive in slightly acidic soil conditions.
Temperature & Humidity
JAMES
James is an environmental gardener and passionate writer who holds a master's degree in agriculture. He graduated from Harvard University with a degree in environmental horticulture and has a particular interest in soil composition. Currently, James works as a researcher in plant research, where he continues to explore and advance knowledge in his field. His combined expertise in environmental gardening and soil science helps him contribute valuable insights to both academic and practical gardening communities.